Living Well with Kristin Olszewski, Founder of Nomadica: From Michelin-Starred Sommelier to Wine Disruptor, the Art of Branding + What She’s Pouring

Kristin Olszewski isn’t just changing the way we drink wine—she’s redefining what it means to build a brand with purpose. As the founder of Nomadica, a collection of sommelier-curated, low-intervention wines in eco-conscious packaging, Kristin is on a mission to make exceptional, sustainable wines more accessible while challenging the industry’s outdated norms. But her impact goes beyond the vineyard.

When wildfires recently claimed her Malibu home, Kristin didn’t just rebuild—she rallied. Bringing together some of LA’s top chefs and hospitality leaders, she turned loss into action, co-hosting a charity dinner at Valerie Echo Park to support families affected by the fires.

With a background in sustainable agriculture and Michelin-starred restaurants, Kristin has built Nomadica with a philosophy that’s as thoughtful as the wines she curates: zero sugar, low-intervention, and always better for the planet. We sat down with her to talk about sustainability in the wine industry, the power of gathering, and what ‘living well’ really means.

Living Well with Kristin Olszewski

Nomadica is all about reshaping how we drink wine. What lightbulb moment made you say, 'This needs to exist'? It all clicked for me when I was working as a sommelier and watching younger diners opt for cocktails over wine—not because they didn't like wine, but because the experience felt outdated or intimidating. Wine has always been about pleasure and connection, but somewhere along the way, it became gatekept by tradition. I wanted to change that. I saw an opportunity to create something high-quality, sustainable, and accessible that would bring people into the category rather than push them away. That's how Nomadica was born.

There's an art to branding—what was the inspiration behind Nomadica's aesthetic, from the name to the design? Nomadica is rooted in the idea of exploration—of places, emotions, and artistry. I wanted it to feel like a journey, not just another wine brand. The name itself comes from the spirit of being a nomad, of seeking out the best experiences wherever they exist.

A big part of my inspiration came from the world of art. I've always loved how album covers, books, and films can evoke emotions before you even press play or turn the first page. I wanted Nomadica to do that, too. That's why every can features artwork that tells a story—it's about more than just wine; it's about creating a sensory experience. We want each piece of can art to be a tasting note for the wine inside! 

You spend so much time thinking about the intersection of food, wine, and sustainability—what does your ideal meal look like, and what are you pouring? My ideal meal is both comforting and exciting. I love the simplicity of a perfectly cooked piece of fish, some seasonal vegetables, and a sauce that ties it all together. Add a bitter green salad with citrus, and I'm always drawn toward bright, refreshing, high-acid meals!

Of course, I'm pouring something from Nomadica! I'm obsessed with our sparkling white and rose because they're refreshing and vibrant, or one of our red blends if it's a cozy night. Wine should enhance the meal, not overpower it—it's all about balance.

Canned wine has had a bit of a glow-up in recent years. What misconceptions about it do you wish more people understood? The biggest misconception is that canned wine is inherently low quality. The can is just the vessel—what matters is what's inside. People are finally realizing that you can have beautiful, thoughtfully made wine in a can and that it's a better choice in many ways. It's more sustainable, portable, and perfect for occasions where a glass bottle isn't practical.

Another thing? You don't have to overthink it. No corkscrew, no pressure. Just good wine, wherever you are.

As a female founder in an industry dominated by tradition, what unique challenges have you faced? There have been so many moments where I've walked into a room and been underestimated. The wine industry is full of legacy players who have been doing things the same way for decades. When you come in with a fresh perspective—especially as a woman—it can feel like you must prove yourself ten times over.

But I've learned to use that to my advantage. The fact that I'm not tied to the "old way" of doing things has allowed me to build something that speaks to the next generation of wine drinkers. And seeing more women stepping into leadership roles in wine gives me so much hope for the future.

What's a lesson you learned the hard way in the early days of Nomadica? I used to think that if I just worked harder, I could control everything. But the reality of building a company is that some things are out of your hands—supply chain issues, market shifts, and unexpected challenges. Learning to be adaptable, to trust my instincts, and to pivot when necessary was a hard lesson, but one of the most valuable ones.

Also, in the early days, I tried to do everything myself. I've since learned that having the right people around you is everything. You can't build something great alone.

Losing your home in the Malibu fires must have been devastating. How did you find the resilience to keep moving forward—not just personally, but as a leader? That experience completely changed me. Losing everything forces you to strip down to what really matters. At first, it was just survival—figuring out where to live and how to rebuild. But over the last two months, I realized that loss also gave me clarity. It made me even more committed to what I was creating with Nomadica.

You learn to trust yourself more profoundly when you go through something like that. You realize that no matter how much you lose, you can rebuild. That mindset has shaped the way I lead. It's given me the ability to navigate uncertainty with a level of calm that I wouldn't have had before.

How do you carve out time for yourself, and what does self-care look like for you? It took me a long time to realize that self-care isn't just a luxury—showing up fully in your work and life is necessary. For me, it's about small rituals: morning walks, journaling, drinking really good coffee. I also love traveling solo. It gives me space to think, reset, and return to my work with fresh energy.

That, and a perfect glass of wine at the end of a long day

Complete this sentence: Living well means… Living well means being present. It's about finding joy in the little things—good food, beautiful moments, deep conversations. It's about surrounding yourself with people who inspire you and never losing your curiosity for the world.

If you’re ready to rethink the way you drink wine—without compromising on quality or sustainability—Nomadica is leading the way. Explore their thoughtfully curated, sommelier-selected wines and learn more about their mission at explorenomadica.com

The post Living Well with Kristin Olszewski, Founder of Nomadica: From Michelin-Starred Sommelier to Wine Disruptor, the Art of Branding + What She’s Pouring appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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Behind the Collab: Miranda Kerr’s Vision for Kora x Pressed Juicery

When wellness meets luxury, something extraordinary is born. This month, our Guest Editor-in-Chief, Miranda Kerr, continues to share her passion for beauty that goes beyond skin deep. Enter the KORA x Pressed collaboration—a seamless fusion of skincare and nutrition, designed to nourish from the inside out.

As the founder of KORA Organics, Miranda has always championed the connection between internal well-being and radiant skin. Partnering with Pressed Juicery, a brand equally dedicated to clean, nutrient-rich living, was a natural next step in this philosophy.

In this exclusive behind-the-scenes look, Miranda takes us inside the inspiration, creative process, and wellness rituals that shaped this collaboration. From the powerful benefits of turmeric to the art of holistic self-care, discover how KORA x Pressed Juicery is redefining beauty from within.

Behind the Collab with Miranda Kerr

How does this collaboration reflect your personal values and the mission of Kora Organics?
Our collaboration with Pressed Juicery is naturally aligned as we share a passion for health and wellness. At KORA Organics, we believe that wellness is a holistic journey—what you put on your skin and into your body are equally important. Pressed Juicery shares this commitment to empowering healthier choices through clean, nutrient-dense offerings. Together, we’re celebrating the connection between inner and outer nourishment, providing tools for people to thrive in a more mindful and intentional way. This partnership embodies KORA’s mission to inspire wellness through powerful natural ingredients and thoughtful practices that support overall well-being.

What role does nutrition play in your personal self-care routine, and how did that influence this collab?
Nutrition is at the core of my self care routine. I believe that what you put into your body is just as important as what you put on your skin. Eating clean, nutrient-dense ingredients helps me feel energised, balanced, and at my best.

This collaboration with Pressed Juicery felt so aligned because it reflects that same philosophy, nourishing yourself from the inside out. Their dedication to high quality, nutrient-rich ingredients mirrors what we stand for at KORA Organics, and I love that we’re able to come together to promote wellness in such a natural, delicious way.

What was the most exciting part of the creative process with the Pressed team?
The most exciting part was collaborating to create something truly unique and aligned with both of our missions. I loved brainstorming flavor profiles and ingredients that not only taste delicious but also deliver real nutritional benefits. Seeing our shared commitment to quality and wellness come to life was so rewarding.

The Pressed team’s passion and creativity made the process so much fun. It’s exciting to work with like-minded brands to inspire healthier choices for people everywhere.

Can you tell us about the key benefits of turmeric for both internal health and external beauty? How do these benefits translate into the products in this collection?
Turmeric is an incredible ingredient with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Internally, it supports digestion, boosts immunity, and promotes overall well-being, which is why it’s often referred to as a superfood. Externally, turmeric helps calm and brighten the skin while supporting a healthy, radiant complexion, it’s been a trusted beauty remedy for centuries.

In this collaboration, we’ve harnessed turmeric’s amazing benefits to nourish the body inside and out. The juice is designed to fuel your body with its natural anti-inflammatory properties, while KORA Organics products, like our Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser, delivers that same antioxidant-rich nourishment to your skin. It’s a beautiful synergy!

Are there any special rituals or routines you’d recommend to make the most of these products?
Absolutely! I believe rituals help us slow down and truly connect with the benefits of what we’re consuming, whether it’s skincare or nutrition.

Each morning, I start with KORA’s Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser in the shower, it leaves my skin feeling fresh and radiant. A few times a week, I’ll follow up with our Turmeric 2:1 Brightening & Exfoliating Mask, either as a gentle scrub or a detoxifying mask, depending on what my skin needs. Then, I’ll have one of Pressed Juicery’s turmeric shots to give my body an anti-inflammatory boost. It’s a simple, effective way to support both my skin and overall wellness from the inside out. Combining these internal and external rituals creates a beautiful, balanced routine that supports your health and well-being from the inside out.

What’s your go-to wellness ritual or product when you’re short on time?
When I’m short on time, I focus on the essentials that make the biggest impact. For me, it’s all about mindfulness tools like meditation. I love to start the day with a 20 min meditation. It helps me start my day with clarity.

For skincare, my go-to is the KORA Organics Turmeric 2:1 Brightening & Exfoliating Mask, it’s a multitasking product that I use as an exfoliating scrub every couple of days, and sometimes I leave it on for 5 minutes as a detoxifying mini-mask while I'm still in the shower. I like to take a moment to massage it in and breathe deeply, even if it’s just for a minute. It’s like a facial in a tube which gives my skin an instant glow.

How do you see the wellness and beauty industry evolving in the next 5 years, and how do you hope Kora will play a part in that evolution?
I believe the wellness and beauty industries will continue to merge as people recognise the deep connection between inner and outer health. Consumers are becoming more educated and conscious, looking for products that deliver results while also being clean, sustainable, and kind to the planet. Advances in technology, like AI and personalised health tools, will allow people to tailor their routines to meet their unique needs.

At KORA Organics, I hope to continue leading this evolution by setting the standard for Certified Organic skincare. Our focus will remain on developing innovative products that nourish the skin while promoting overall wellbeing. We’re committed to transparency, sustainability, and creating formulas that truly work without compromising on quality or integrity.

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Living Well with Elissa Goodman: On Graceful Aging, the Most Common Diet Mistake + One Wellness Shift You Should Be Making

From the very beginning, Elissa Goodman has been a trusted voice at The Chalkboard Mag—a guiding light in the world of holistic health, detoxification, and gut healing. As a certified holistic nutritionist, cleanse expert, and wellness pioneer, Elissa has helped thousands reclaim their vitality through her signature approach to well-being, rooted in deep nourishment, stress management, and emotional healing.

This week, we’re beyond excited to have Elissa join us for Living Well, where she dives into the most common mistakes people make when trying to improve their diet, the moments when she had to redefine what ‘wellness’ meant for her, and the wellness philosophies that have made her a go-to authority in the space. From the power of gut health to the emotional side of healing, she’s sharing the insights and practices that can help all of us feel our absolute best.

Living Well with Elissa Goodman

My wellness philosophy: My wellness philosophy is rooted in the power of nourishing whole foods, holistic healing, and listening to the body’s signals to achieve lasting vitality. I believe that true wellness comes from a balanced approach… focusing on gut health, stress management, and detoxification rather than deprivation or extreme measures. Through clean eating, mindful lifestyle shifts, and pro-aging practices, I encourage others to take charge of their health and feel their absolute best at any stage of life.

How I started: I started my wellness journey after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in my 30s, which led me to explore holistic healing through food, stress management, and detoxification. Later, facing Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, and Celiac disease, I deepened my commitment to nourishing my body naturally. After losing my husband to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, I became a Certified Holistic Nutritionist to help others take charge of their health before crisis hits, proving that small, intentional changes can lead to lifelong vitality.

What’s one wellness ritual you never skip, no matter how busy life gets? No matter how busy life gets, I never skip my daily green juice. It’s my go-to ritual for flooding my body with nutrients, supporting digestion, and boosting energy first thing in the morning. It’s a simple yet powerful way to stay grounded, nourished, and feeling my best every single day.

Healing isn’t always linear. Have there been moments where you had to redefine what ‘wellness’ meant for you? Absolutely. One of the biggest moments I had to redefine wellness was when I struggled with insomnia and realized how much my emotions and subconscious mind were affecting my physical health. It wasn’t just about what I was eating, drinking, or what time I went to bed—lowering screen time and reading before bed didn’t fix it. The real issue was emotional and energetic, and once I started addressing the deeper layers of stress and unresolved emotions, my sleep finally started to improve.

People associate ‘detox’ often with quick fixes and cleanses, but your approach is much deeper. What does it actually mean to detox, and what are the biggest misconceptions about it? Detoxing is so much more than a quick fix or a trendy cleanse… It's a daily process that your body is already designed to do. Your liver, kidneys, gut, and even your skin work around the clock to filter out toxins and keep you functioning at your best. The key isn’t to rely on extreme juice fasts or expensive supplements but to support your body with real, nutrient-dense foods that enhance these natural detox pathways. One of the biggest misconceptions is that detoxing is about deprivation when, in reality, it’s about nourishment. It’s not about sweating everything out, cutting carbs, or taking magic pills. It’s about fueling your body with what it actually needs to thrive, from leafy greens and fiber-rich foods to hydration and stress management. True detoxing is a lifestyle, not a one-time event.

You’ve worked with so many clients through their healing journeys—what’s a common mistake people make when trying to improve their diet? One of the biggest mistakes I see is people trying to change everything all at once or jumping into extreme elimination diets that aren’t sustainable. That’s why I encourage the 80/20 rule—focusing on nourishing, whole foods most of the time while allowing space for flexibility and enjoyment. True wellness isn’t about perfection; it’s about balance, consistency, and making choices that feel aligned with your lifestyle for the long haul.

What’s your personal nighttime ritual that helps you reset and recharge for the next day? I unwind with my red light mask in bed, which not only helps me relax but also boosts collagen production, reduces inflammation, and improves skin tone. It’s a soothing way to recharge, promote skin health, and set myself up for a restful night’s sleep.

If you could only pack five wellness essentials for a trip, what would they be? For a trip, I’m packing IM8 (a really cool new powerful supplement blend by David Beckham), ARMRA colostrum, Ultima Replenisher’s hydrating powder to add to my water, Timeline skincare, and a small selenite wand for protection. These keep me nourished, hydrated, glowing, and energetically balanced wherever I am.

What’s one wellness shift everyone in their 30s and 40s should make now for better health in the decades to come? One wellness shift everyone in their 30s and 40s should make is walking 10k steps a day outside. It’s great for sunlight exposure, movement, and lymphatic drainage, all of which are key to maintaining long-term health and vitality.

You’re proof that aging can be graceful, vibrant, and full of energy. What’s one belief about aging that we should all let go of, and what should we replace it with? One belief about aging we should let go of is that the number matters. Your age doesn’t define your vitality—I feel better at 64 than I did in my 20s! It’s not about the number; it’s about how you care for your body and mindset.

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A Latte with Benefits: The Mood-Boosting, Antioxidant-Packed Sip You Need

We love Anima Mundi for their herbal alchemy—if you’ve been reading The Chalkboard Mag, you already know we feature their recipes quite often. This dreamy layered latte is yet another reason why. With rich, bold coffee floating between two creamy layers, it’s a feast for the eyes and the senses. But beyond its gorgeous gradient, this sip is infused with serious benefits.

Anima Mundi’s Happiness Powder is packed with mood-boosting adaptogens and digestive bitters, adding an earthy, malty sweetness that plays beautifully with coffee. Meanwhile, Butterfly Pea Flower lends its signature hue and its calming, antioxidant-rich properties to help ease stress and nourish from the inside out.

Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or whenever you need a little extra magic, this latte is one of those small, luxurious rituals that makes the day feel elevated.

RECIPE 

Serves: 1

Prep time: 15 minutes

Method:No bake

Yield:2 servings

INGREDIENTS:

 

2 tsp Happiness Powder

1 Tbsp Butterfly Pea Flower

1 tsp sweetener of choice

100 mL (3-2.5oz) coffee, hot

50 mL  (1.5-2oz) water, hot

100 + 50 mL (5oz) milk of choice

50 mL (1.5oz) double cream, cold

2 drops rose essence

Dry rose petals, garnish

Directions:

 

+ Add 100mL (3-3.5oz) half and half to a glass and mix in Happiness powder.

+ Mix the hot water and hot coffee and add it to the cream slowly. (To have separate coffee and milk layers, very slowly pour the hot coffee over the back of the spoon to create a distinct layer on top; the temperature difference in liquids will help maintain the separation, ensuring the denser milk stays at the bottom and the lighter coffee floats on top.)

+ Leave it to rest while you make the top cream.

+ In a cold milk jug, add the 50 mL double cream, 50 mL half and half, sugar, and Butterly Pea Flower powder.

+ Mix with a frother until nicely foamy. If you like, add in a couple drops of rose essence.

+ Again, very slowly pour the blue cold cream over the back of a spoon to create a distinct layer on top of the coffee.

+ Decorate with edible rose petals. Enjoy!

 

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5 Ways For Overwhelmed High-Performers To Reset And Gain Control

High-performers are naturally adept at getting things done. They thrive as leaders and managers, navigating challenges with agility and expertise. Yet, in a fast-paced world of constant connectivity, back-to-back meetings, and little time for breaks, even the most accomplished professionals can feel like they’re losing control—or worse, burning out. In The Choice Is Yours: A Simple Approach to Live and Lead with More Joy, Ease, and Purpose, author and executive life coach Stef Ziev offers a practical guide to reclaiming balance and fulfillment in both work and life before burnout takes over.

5 Things Overwhelmed High-Performers Can CHOOSE To Do To Reset And Gain Control

Get Present | If you’re feeling overwhelmed that typically means you’re future, negative fantasizing. That is, you’re thinking about the future and it’s not going well. As a result, you get distracted, you’re stressed, and there’s no way you’re getting your best work done. To interrupt this experience and bring yourself back to the present moment, name what’s here now. Say to yourself, “I’m sitting in this chair. My feet are on the ground. My fingers are on the keypad.” Once you feel more centered, consider one step you can now take toward your task at hand. Let that lead the way.

Set Intentions | This can be both the literal goal you want to achieve as well as the experience. E.g.: “To write the report with ease.” Or “To share the presentation with confidence.” Keep it simple. This is your focal point. You can also implement intention setting for you and your team before each meeting. This serves multiple purposes including: taking a breath in between meetings, creating clarity, and connecting with yourself and others.

Create + Communicate Boundaries | What do you need to do your best work? Think about what this means to you and then communicate those parameters to anyone who supports you and any other relevant party. Ask them for their partnership in keeping these boundaries in place. People cannot read your mind, so outline and share your needs to set yourself up for success.

Take Your Space | Getting grounded, having time to think, work, and strategize are foundational to being a high-performer. Bio, mental, and meal breaks are also vital for you to fuel yourself and thrive! Consider breaking up your time in three blocks: 1) Meetings 2) Work 3) Breaks. Claiming your space, holding it sacred, and using it deliberately is important for you, as well as your team, and your organization to flourish.

Celebrate Your Wins! | As often as you can, give yourself the gift of stopping and acknowledging your accomplishments and to praise the achievement of your team, no matter how big or small. This is a great way to expand your joy and energize your people!

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TCM Guest Editor-in-Chief: Miranda Kerr’s 2025 Wellness Blueprint

What’s Miranda’s secret? That’s the question we’re asking all month as Miranda Kerr—supermodel, founder of the award-winning clean beauty brand KORA Organics, celebrated entrepreneur, and globally recognized wellness advocate—steps in as our Guest Editor in Chief this month. With her holistic approach to health, beauty, and balance, Miranda has become a trailblazer in the wellness world, proving that true radiance comes from within.

In this exclusive interview, Miranda shares her take on what wellness trends we might finally leave behind, the habits we should all add to our daily routines, and even her predictions for the next big thing in wellness (spoiler: it’s one you’ll want to get ahead of). She also spills on the wellness leaders who inspire her and how she’s setting the stage for a thriving year ahead.

Whether you’re already in full New Year’s resolution mode or simply looking for a little nudge toward your best self, Miranda’s thoughtful insights are sure to light the way.

Miranda Kerr's 2025 Wellness Blueprint

In 2025, do you think your wellness routine will be more high-tech (AI, apps, devices) or back-to-basics (meditation, massage, nature walks)? My approach to wellness in 2025 is a balance of both high-tech innovations and back-to-basics practices. I believe in the power of combining cutting-edge tools with grounding rituals to achieve overall health and wellbeing.

I’m passionate about integrating technology into wellness. For example, I wear my Oura ring daily to track my sleep, activity, and recovery, which helps me stay balanced. For better sleep, I use the Somnee Sleep headset, which incorporates sound therapy, and the Hatch Sleep & Meditation device to support my natural sleep-wake cycles. I also love Weber laser devices, such as a helmet, watch, and mat, which work on a cellular level to enhance energy, healing, and wellness. The Vasper exercise bike is another favorite, it uses compression and cooling technology to maximize workouts and recovery.

At the same time, I deeply value back-to-basics practices like meditation, local organic produce and nature walks. These are essential for maintaining a sense of peace and connection. Combining these approaches helps me stay grounded while embracing innovation in my wellness journey.

What’s one outdated wellness trend you think we’ll finally say goodbye to in 2025? In 2025, I believe people will embrace a more holistic and intuitive approach to their wellness routines, focusing on what feels good and supports their individual needs rather than following rigid rules. It's all about finding harmony and making choices that work for you as an individual.

If you could add one new wellness habit to everyone’s daily routine in 2025, what would it be? I would encourage everyone to dedicate at least 5–10 minutes each day to intentional breathwork or mindfulness. It's such a simple yet powerful practice that can help calm your mind, reduce stress, and improve overall well being. Taking a moment to pause, connect with your breath, and be present. It can make such a difference in how we feel.

If you had a "crystal ball" for the future of wellness, what big trend do you see coming that nobody is talking about yet? I believe we’ll see a significant rise in personalized bio frequency therapy. It’s still relatively niche, but the idea of using subtle energy frequencies tailored to your personal needs has incredible potential for physical, emotional, and mental well being.

Many people see you as a role model for wellness. Who inspires you in the wellness space, and why? Wellness is such a deep passion of mine. I’ve been fortunate to find incredible inspiration throughout my journey. One of my biggest influences has been the New York Center for Innovative Medicine (NYCIM), which I’ve been visiting since I was 21 years old. Their integrative, science-backed approach to health has taught me so much about the importance of addressing the root causes of issues and treating the body, mind, and spirit as one.

I’m also so excited that NYCIM is opening a center in Los Angeles early next year! Los Angeles Center for Innovative Medicine LACIM. It’s wonderful that more people will have access to their innovative and personalized approach to wellness. They’ve been a cornerstone of my health journey, and I’m so excited that more people will now have access to their treatments on the West Coast.

What’s one small change people can make in their own routines to live more sustainably in 2025? One simple yet impactful change is to reduce single-use plastics in everyday life. Instead use reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and food storage containers. Also, be mindful of the products you purchase, choose those with sustainable packaging and organic, eco-friendly ingredients. Supporting brands that prioritize the planet creates a ripple effect.

It’s about consistent, thoughtful choices that collectively make a big difference.

If you could give everyone a “mental wellness toolkit” for 2025, what 3 things would you put in it? For me, mental wellness starts with the simple, yet powerful things we do every day. First, really trying to prioritize sleep by getting to bed after I put my kids to sleep is a game changer. Sleep is when our bodies restore, our minds reset, and our skin rejuvenates—it’s truly the foundation of wellness.

Second, spending time in nature is so important. Whether it’s a barefoot walk on the grass, feeling the sunshine on your skin, or taking a moment to breathe in fresh air, nature has such an incredible ability to ground us and bring a sense of calm.

And lastly, mindfulness tools like meditation and daily gratitude have made such a difference in my life. Taking even just a few minutes each day to center yourself—whether that’s through deep breathing, journaling, or a gratitude practice—helps shift your perspective and cultivate a more positive, balanced mindset.

What’s one thing you’re doing now to set yourself up for a happy, healthy 2025? I’m focusing on consistency in my daily routines. It’s about showing up for myself in small, meaningful ways every day. That means nourishing my body with organic, wholesome foods, prioritizing quality sleep, and making time for daily movement and mindfulness—whether that’s a Pilates session, meditation, or simply taking a few deep breaths before a busy day. These habits are my foundation, and when I stay consistent, I feel my best—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

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Living Well with April Gargiulo, founder of Vintner’s Daughter: On Slow Beauty, Sustainability + Why Less Is More

For April Gargiulo, skincare is more than beauty—it’s craftsmanship, integrity, and a deep commitment to quality. Before launching Vintner’s Daughter in 2013, April spent years at the helm of her family’s Napa Valley winery, where she developed a meticulous approach to sourcing and formulation. She carried that same standard into skincare, debuting Active Botanical Serum, a single, nutrient-rich product that became an instant cult favorite.

With a B Corp certification, carbon neutrality, and a mission-driven focus, Vintner’s Daughter isn’t just about transformative skincare—it’s about creating a positive impact on both skin and the planet. In this Living Well interview, April shares her approach to mindful beauty, sustainability, and the daily rituals that keep her grounded.

Living Well with April Gargiulo

Walk us through your perfect morning—what are the non-negotiables that set the tone for your day? My husband wakes me up. He is an early bird and I am not. I make oolog tea from Song Tea in San Francisco. They source the most beautiful single origin teas. Tea time is a bit of a connection ceremony or exercise for me each morning. It's not long since I'm also helping my kids get ready for school, but it's a non-negotiable. After I drop my kids off at the bus, if I have time, I meet a group of friends and we cold plunge in SF bay. Then it's off to exercise and the office. At some point in between, I do our three step routine - Active Renewal Cleanser, Active Treatment Essence and Active Botanical Serum. In those three simple, but comprehensive steps, I know my skin is receiving everything it needs for the day in the most bio-available format possible. 

You’re a founder, a leader, and a mom—how do you create space for balance in your life, especially in such a fast-paced industry? No single day is perfectly balanced, but I look at it over the course of a week or month. I can feel it when things feel off and I course correct fast. Shonda Rhimes just did a valedictorian speech recently and answered this same question so powerfully. All my mom friends are forwarding it to each other. She captured the importance and value of the juggle so beautifully. As if I couldn't love her more already. 

What’s been the most rewarding moment in building Vintner’s Daughter so far? No question, it's our community. We have gratefully and joyfully built a community of the most discerning women in the world. These are people who care deeply about what they bring into their lives. Not just choosing based on the high performance they insist upon, but also the integrity of the brands they choose. I feel very honored to be a part of their beloved and cherished worlds. 

From Napa Valley to the beauty world, what was the biggest challenge in transitioning from winemaking to skincare: In fine winemaking there is an understanding that in order to produce the finest wines, you must begin with the finest land, grapes, vintage and a patient approach to winemaking. All count and there is no way to shortcut or disregard any of them in order to make the best wines. With beauty, even the most revered products are often made very fast with low quality, synthetic ingredients. When I presented my idea of beginning every formulation with the world's most nutrient rich whole botanicals and spending three weeks to meticulously capture their full spectrum of actives, I got a lot of push back. It was unheard of in the beauty world to do what I wanted to do. This was a challenge for sure, but ultimately helped me develop the conviction to go my own way. 

So many brands take a ‘more is more’ approach to skincare. Why have you focused on fewer, highly potent products instead of a larger collection? I have incredible discipline and a north star that me and my team deeply believe in. We only create the most game-changing, multi-beneficial skincare in the world, This is an incredibly high bar and one we both joyfully and rigorously uphold every single day. We aren't interested in making our community's next product. We make her forever products. The ones she marries for life. 

For someone completely new to Vintner’s Daughter, what’s the best way to get started with your products? I am a skincare minimalist and believe that when things are made better, we can use fewer and for longer. This approach is applied to every formula we create. It is why it takes us 21 days to produce every bottle. We care for the skin in the same way we would our bodies, with the world's most nutrient rich whole botanicals and that cannot be rushed. Because of this, our three formulas deliver everything the skin needs in three simple, multi-beneficial steps. So, choosing one is hard. I would say, choose the one that you are drawn to. Each is a hero on its own and when used together are far greater than the sum of its parts. 

Sustainability is built into every aspect of your business. What does it take to create a truly sustainable beauty brand beyond just ‘clean’ formulas? I made a point from day one to make sustainability table stakes. We not only think about the earth in this commitment, but also her people. To that end, we were awarded a B Corp certification in 2022. B Corp certifies the highest standards of both environmental and social impact. We also think about the spiritual and psychological impact of our new, more and next dominated beauty industry that constantly barrages people with new for new sake, with marketing campaigns often driven by fear and insecurity. Instead we choose to be more thoughtful and intentional with our product introductions- only three in 12 years, each coming from a place of true innovation and gamechanging performance. Because our formulations are designed to be so multi-beneficial they are able to impact skin far more holistically delivering better results instantly but even more so over time. Vice/verse, this fewer with better philosophy has far less of an impact on our earth. And I haven't even spoken about our whole plant formulas and the benefits that they bring to not just our skin, but also our food systems. 

Do you have a favorite book, podcast, or philosophy that’s shaped how you approach health and wellness? I have studied zen buddhism for many years and it is foundational for how I approach all aspects of my life including health and wellness. For me, it's about finding balance and contentment in the present. I am rarely chasing empty promises of change, renewal, transformation etc. Instead I work to trust in and listen to my body’s and our earth's innate wisdom. 

​​What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs looking to build brands with purpose and longevity? Don't fall prey to short term fixes. Always follow your north star with heart and hustle. This will make long term decision making and brand building more effective. 

Complete this sentence: Living well means…practicing gratitude, joy and generosity. 

The post Living Well with April Gargiulo, founder of Vintner’s Daughter: On Slow Beauty, Sustainability + Why Less Is More appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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